An online degree is increasingly becoming a popular choice. Making the decision of which program is right can be difficult, and an online degree can tend to make the process more difficult. There are a few main differences, and we will evaluate the pros and cons of an online MSN degree.
Pros:
1. Flexibility:
if you have a hectic schedule, an online degree can be the best choice to further your career. Instead of having set times for classes that may interfere with your work schedule, you are able to finish the classes at your own pace, relative to due dates.
2. Affordability:
Many online programs have a lower cost per credit, than in-person programs. For example, Midwestern State University has three online MSN programs with credits averaging at $244 each. This is far less than other programs such as Vanderbilt University, where the tuition – per credit hour, is $1,454.
3. Length of Program:
While there is flexibility for when to complete classes, there is also flexibility on when to complete the program. You can choose to be a full-time, or part-time student, and adapt the program to your schedule.
Cons:
1. Accreditation:
This is extremely important for an online MSN degree program. If the program is accredited, then the quality of the curriculum, as well as the credibility of the degree, is in theory the same as an in-person degree.
2. Experience:
An online program, while still requires clinical experience, does not have the aspect of working with others from the same program, and does not have the same. An important part of in-person programs is the face-to-face experience that is lacking from an online program
3. Resources:
When completing an online degree, there will not be as many resources available to you, such as faculty relationships, access to medical journals and case studies, as well as the hands-on experience.
